Press briefing - afternoon 16 January 2013

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Prime Minister’s activity

The Prime Minister chaired a Ministerial COBR meeting this afternoon and received a full update on the terrorist incident at the BP installation in Algeria. The ongoing incident involves various nationalities including several British nationals. The PMS confirmed that the government is working with BP to provide support to families of members of staff, as well as providing Consular assistance.

Algeria

The PMS also confirmed that the PM will be speaking to his Algerian Counterpart later today to discuss the situation. Further details will follow.

Asked if the PM was concerned about unrest in Africa, the PMS stated that the government is working with its international partners to bring stability to the region- including working with the French and Malian governments.

Blockbusters

When asked about the announcement that Blockbusters was going into administration, the PMS said that it was clearly difficult for those who are affected by the job losses, but the best thing that the government can do, and its focused on, is supporting and creating conditions that will lead to a sustainable private sector recovery. The PMS set out the active government agenda for supporting businesses, in addition to tax measures, getting rid of red tape, and high street initiatives, such as the Mary Portas review. The PMS acknowledged that there are changing retail trends and shopping habits, but the government is supporting and enhancing conditions for growth across all aspects of the private sector.

Food standards

Asked if the Food Standards Authority was sufficiently funded, the PMS said that the government believes that the FSA has the resources it needs.